30/07/2024
What UK Landlords should know
Several key updates are affecting UK landlords in 2024:
1. EPC Requirements: Landlords must ensure their properties have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of at least 'C' by 2030. This change aims to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in line with environmental goals and legal requirements (Energy Live News) (Fraser Bond).
2. Leasehold and Commonhold Reform: Labour's Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill aims to overhaul the leasehold system, including tackling unregulated ground rents and removing the threat of forfeiture for non-compliance with lease agreements. This bill will address existing issues and reinvigorate commonhold, which has been underutilized since its introduction (The Independent Landlord).
3. Abolition of 'No Fault' Evictions: Labour plans to abolish Section 21 'no fault' evictions through the Renters' Rights Bill, transforming renters' rights and possibly eliminating assured shorthold tenancies. This change will likely be implemented in 2025 and will shift eviction processes to the Section 8 framework, which is more restrictive for landlords (The Independent Landlord).
4. Stamp Duty Changes: The current reduced stamp duty rates, introduced in the 2022 mini-budget, will end on 31 March 2025. This may lead to a surge in property transactions before the deadline, as buyers aim to benefit from the lower rates (The Independent Landlord).
5. Capital Gains Tax Adjustments: The annual exempt amount for Capital Gains Tax has been reduced from £6,000 to £3,000, increasing the tax burden on landlords selling properties. However, the top rate of Capital Gains Tax has been slightly reduced from 28% to 24% (The Independent Landlord).
These updates reflect the government's ongoing efforts to improve housing standards, promote energy efficiency, and reform the private rental sector. For landlords, staying informed and compliant with these changes is crucial to managing their properties effectively.